Following the steps of Phileas Fogg?

It all started back in 1872, the late 19th century. Just as the Franco-Prussian war was reshaping Europe and new ideas about colonialism were about to come to life. New inventions were changing daily life in Europe, and the world had never been so much in reach of curious travellers.

Needless to say that I never met Phileas but, who has not read about him and his trip around the world in 80 days? I am sure most of us can relate to Phileas Fogg's thrilling sensation hours away from starting such a incredible adventure!

Who knows how and when monsieur Jules Verne thought of Phileas Fogg. Did he wake up one morning and started to write 'Le tour du monde en quatre-vingts jours'? Probably not, since the idea of a tour round the world was not new. Several books with similar names were written throughout the 19th century and adventurous travellers were exploring all corners of the world (including the first ever around the world tourist trip organised by Mr Thomas Cook in 1872!). I wonder if monsieur Verne had heard of the American traveller, Mr William Perry Fogg, who wrote about his trips around the world between 1869 and 1872.

And why would a French writer tell the story of an English gentleman? Why not a French explorer? I would have thought that, after the collapse of the Second French Empire, the country would have welcomed a new national hero.

Nevertheless, ever since I read Verne's book as a child, I have dreamed of following Phileas' steps around the world. Travelling has become my passion. Exploring new places, meeting new people, learning about new languages and ways of life ... And in this blog I would love sharing my experiences with you and gathering your thoughts and opinions.